Finance Voices

Tech Tutor and finance freshman Jermaine Phua helps a member of the community set up email on his new iPad.

Hear about the UT Dallas Finance and Managerial Economics Area from the voices of the people who know best.

The best way to understand how an education in Finance and Managerial Economics at UT Dallas can impact your life is to hear directly from the people who have lived it themselves. Finance alumni and current students, as well as faculty and staff members, have a lot to say about what you can expect from your JSOM experience. Take a look below and discover what your time at the Jindal School might look like, from the voices of those who have gone before you.

Finance Student Ambassadors

Student Ambassadors are here to answer any of your questions. They are current students who are passionate about their JSOM experience at UT Dallas and have chosen to mentor and guide other students like you.

Sadbhav Aryal

Sadbhav Aryal , Class of 2023

Hi, my name is Sadbhav, and I am a second-semester Energy Management Student at Jindal School of Management. Dallas is my second home, and I love UTD for its vibrant environment, endless career-oriented academic opportunities, comprehensive curriculum, and beautiful campus. I have several years of working experience in energy & project management, and I joined UTD with an expectation to strengthen my abilities and fill the gap of skill shortage in energy industries.

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Isha Bhave

General Secretary

GFMC is a student organization dedicated to uniting and assisting finance students at UTD through initiatives such as coffee chats, networking events with industry professionals and alumni, and offering mentorship programs. The organization provides a platform for students to connect with like-minded peers, make friends, build professional networks, and kickstart their journeys at UTD. Having been a member of GFMC since my initial semester, I recall the challenges faced as an international student—questions about course structures, classes, navigating the internship landscape, and adapting to life in a new country. Fortunately, GFMC leaders played a pivotal role in guiding me through these uncertainties.

Our organization is a collective of mentors ready to offer support whenever needed. As the General Secretary of GFMC, I am committed to providing support to students in both their academic pursuits and professional endeavors. I aim to offer the best guidance to everyone in every way possible. I am eager to share my learnings and experiences accumulated over 2 years of professional experience in law and finance, coupled with 1 year of academic experience here at UTD.Whether you’re a new student finding your way or a current student, please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I am more than happy to share insights, provide assistant, and contribute to your growth during your time at UTD.

Sumaiya Ansari

Social Media Manager

GFMC is an invaluable organization for finance students, providing support through program ambassadors, mentors, and leaders. The council emphasizes a sense of creativity and value creation. By guiding students in their professional development and connecting them with finance professionals and alumni, GFMC enhances career prospects and professional networks. With a passion for leveraging financial expertise to drive strategic decision-making and business growth, I bring 7 years of hands-on experience in various finance roles, including FP&A, accounting, and cash flows. As a Chartered Accountant and ACCA, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Finance at UTD, focusing on Corporate Finance. I am excited to contribute to GFMC’s mission by serving as a Marketing manager and support the growth and development of finance students. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making a positive impact within the GFMC community.
Marcelo Medeiros de Campos

Marcelo Medeiros de Campos, Class of 2023

Marcelo Campos is an Oil and Gas Industry Executive with 20+ years of experience in Management, Corporate Strategy, Business Development, Sales, and Marketing. Marcelo has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and is currently pursuing both an MBA and M.Sc. in Business focused on Energy Management at The University of Texas.

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Lisa Jaggat

Lisa Jaggat

Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science in finance and economics and her Master of Science in management science from the Naveen Jindal School of Management at UT Dallas. For over eight years, she worked in the finance industry in both her native land, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as in Irving, Texas.

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Sanyukta Suryavanshi, MS Energy Management Student Ambassador

Sanyukta Suryavanshi , Class of 2024

I am a civil engineer from V.J.T.I, Mumbai. I worked for 3 years as and engineer and later pursued my masters in Offshore Structures from NIT Calicut, Kerala. With around 6 years of experience in oil field service and equipment industry, I came to UT Dallas to study Energy Management as it offers me courses in general management and energy business. Professors at UTD are industry experts and impart the understanding in the three sectors of energy business with real world example. Through this course I aspire to work in the area of energy transition by formulating business strategy, guiding in mergers and acquisitions and public policy.

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Lama Hamze

Lama Hamze , Class of 2023

I am in my first semester pursuing a master’s degree in Energy Management at UTD that would combine both my passion to learn more about the solutions and policies needed to resolve these kinds of conflicts and my experience in business.

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Samiha Siddique

Deal Desk Officer

The GFMC student organization is dedicated to connecting incoming Finance students at JSOM with accomplished alumni, providing essential guidance through both academic and professional landscapes. Since joining the MSF program in Fall 2023, I have first-hand experienced the benefits of GFMC’s extensive support network, particularly through the impactful initiatives like the Alumni Roundtable, Excel Case Competition, and the Mentorship Program. I remember how navigating through the academic journey while focusing on extra-curricular activities and securing internship felt overwhelming but the guidance from the GFMC officers and coffee chat sessions arranged by the council made the transition much smoother. These resources have significantly contributed to my academic pursuits and helped build valuable connections with finance professionals. With my background in investment banking and as an active member of GFMC for two semesters, I am well-positioned to mentor both current and prospective finance students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. In my role as a deal desk officer, I aim to leverage my prior editorial and publications’ experiences to help students deliver insightful articles on the latest financial developments, engage in meaningful dialogue with students on financial trends, and provide targeted guidance on academic choices, resume enhancement, internship opportunities, and career development.
Joshua Parr

Joshua Parr

Looking to expand his career opportunities, Joshua decided to study energy because it lies at the intersection of private enterprise and public policy. He selected the Energy Management program at UTD because its instructors have significant industry experience and because it offers practical, real-world course materials, such as authentic energy contracts.

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Ajay Gurram

Treasurer

GFMC stands as an admirable student organization committed to providing steadfast support to the finance student population at UTD. As a qualified Chartered Accountant returning to school as an international student after three years of professional experience, I faced a significant hurdle. However, the exceptional efforts of the GFMC officers greatly eased this process. The team, along with the program director, provided impeccable guidance and mentorship, enabling me to quickly familiarize myself with program requirements, various campus resources, the internship application process, and alumni networks.

GFMC serves as an inclusive platform that allows students to acquire new knowledge, enhance their skills, and foster a genuine sense of community in the financial industry. Drawing from my personal experiences overcoming similar challenges, I am confident in my ability to support and mentor others, just as my senior GFMC members did for me. In my roles as Treasurer and Marketing Manager of GFMC, I am dedicated and excited to share my knowledge and experiences with current and prospective students pursuing an MS in finance degree at UTD. Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any assistance navigating the finance community during your university journey.

Vedant Baniwal

GFMC Student Ambassador

As the former Committee Chair, I led initiatives to connect finance students with industry professionals through networking opportunities, company visits, and coffee chats. My efforts have been pivotal in organizing events that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience. As the former External Relations Director, I fostered strong relationships with leading finance firms, enhancing internship and job placement opportunities for our members. In the forthcoming semesters, as a Student Ambassador, I am dedicated to guiding prospective students, sharing insights from my professional background, and promoting the invaluable support system offered by GFMC. GFMC has been instrumental in my academic journey at UTD. The support from GFMC officers has provided me with numerous opportunities to develop my skills and expand my professional network. Through their guidance, I have gained access to internships, workshops, and mentorship programs that have enriched my learning experience and prepared me for a successful career in finance. GFMC plays a crucial role in empowering finance students at UTD by providing access to a robust network of professionals, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship opportunities. Through these initiatives, I am committed to helping students leverage these resources to achieve their career aspirations and thrive in the competitive finance industry.

Varsha B R

President

As a student organization, GFMC is a valuable resource for incoming and current finance students. With over five years of banking industry experience and as an international student, transitioning to academic life and a new environment can be daunting. However, being part of GFMC has eased this transition through initiatives like Coffee Chat sessions and peer connections. Moreover, GFMC has played a pivotal role in helping me identify and leverage my strengths, address weaknesses, network with industry professionals, and chart my career path through activities such as Financial Advisory Board sessions, Alumni sessions, and Case competitions. Overall, GFMC has significantly contributed to my personal growth and development. As the Deal Desk Officer, I collaborated with students to share insights on recent financial developments. Now, as the GFMC President, I aim to give back to the community by providing unwavering support and guidance to graduate finance students. Together with fellow officers, we are committed to enriching student’s learning and networking experiences while equipping them with the necessary skills for their careers.

Kushleen Chhabra

Committee Chair

I am thrilled to serve as the Committee Chair for GFMC at UTD. With a bachelor’s in finance and extensive experience in finance and insurance consulting, I bring a strong background in data analysis, communication, and equity research. At GFMC, I’m excited to organize impactful events and workshops to support your career growth and enhance our collective understanding of corporate finance, valuation, and investment banking. I aim to foster a collaborative and supportive environment where all can thrive and succeed. I look forward to connecting with industry professionals and applying what we learn practically. If you have any questions or ideas, please feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!

Varun Rakesh Sharma

Vice President

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the Vice President of GFMC. I embarked on my GFMC journey as a committed member during my initial semester at UT Dallas, echoing the common experience of international students who often find themselves wrestling with a multitude of questions and uncertainties regarding their academic and career trajectory. The invaluable guidance and assistance I received from fellow GFMC team members significantly contributed to smoothing my transition and wholeheartedly embracing me as part of the UTD community. In my capacity as Vice President, I am excited about my role in organizing educational events and workshops, partnering with finance experts to assist students in gaining practical expertise and achieving their career objectives. Leveraging my six years of professional background in Corporate Banking, Corporate Finance, Auditing, and Taxation, I eagerly anticipate sharing valuable perspectives and experiences with aspiring finance professionals. I firmly believe I can contribute significantly to the success of incoming and current students, extending the knowledge I’ve gained from my extensive work experience. My dedication to serving the finance community aligns with GFMC’s mission of fostering growth, knowledge-sharing, and value creation. Feel free to connect with me for any assistance or to explore how GFMC can support you in your journey at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Pashmeena Kothari

Assistant Vice President

I am delighted to introduce myself as the Assistant Vice President of the Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC). My journey with GFMC began in my first semester as an international student filled with curiosity and aspirations. Through GFMC’s support, I found a sense of belonging and direction within the UTD community. This positive experience motivated me to serve initially as a Committee Chair where I was the primary point of contact for members and spearheaded the organization of educational events and workshops, gaining a deep insight into the financial interests and needs of our student body. Now, as Assistant Vice President, I am dedicated to further enhancing the GFMC’s outreach and the quality of our educational offerings. I manage all aspects of our event planning, aiming to provide enriching and impactful experiences for every attendee. With a master’s degree in advanced accountancy and over five years of experience in Corporate Finance, Accounting and Auditing from a top firm in India, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a broad perspective to our council. These experiences help me guide our activities and ensure that GFMC remains a pivotal resource for networking and professional growth. I invite all students and professionals to join us at GFMC. Whether you seek guidance or wish to contribute, your participation is crucial for fostering a rewarding finance-centric atmosphere. Feel free to reach out to me if you need support or want to enhance your experience within our finance community at UT Dallas.
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Finance Student Testimonials

Finance and Managerial Economics students talk about their invaluable academic experiences at the UT Dallas Jindal School of Management, providing advice, perspective, and vision.

Katelyn Lobo, PPF 6

Intern at West Monroe Consulting

I joined the Professional Program in Finance as a sophomore and I will say it has exceeded my expectations in every aspect. PPF enabled me with a plethora of mentors that have pushed me to believe in myself and guided me toward my goals. Additionally, taking part in the student investment fund has allowed me to engage in real-world investment scenarios which has sharpened my analytical skills and provided practical insights into the intricacies of financial decision-making. To my surprise, one of the most valuable aspects of PPF has been the incredible community of peers. I have found myself surrounded by ambitious and motivated individuals who are genuinely dedicated to supporting one another’s success. I am immensely grateful to Professor Murray and the program for their guidance and mentorship, which have propelled me to achieve new heights of accomplishment. PPF has truly been instrumental in my pursuit of success, and I am sincerely thankful for the opportunities it has provided me.
Muhazdeen Ibrahim

Muhazdeen Ibrahim , Class of ’19

Senior Analyst , Goldman Sachs

The MSF program at UT Dallas provides students with strong competence in the finance industry.
Kevin Ryan

Kevin Ryan, MBA’95

Energy Management Industry Advisory Board Co-Chair

JSOM’s Master’s in Energy Management degree will give you an edge in the Energy Industry and is a great way to add to your skillset, increase your network and advance your career. As a CFO of an energy company, a UTD MBA alum and someone who is familiar with the MS in Energy Management curriculum, I highly recommend this degree for anyone wanting to distinguish themselves from the rest of the crowd and achieve their career goals
Sneha Venkataraman

Sneha Venkataraman

Intern, American Express, New York

As finance and risk professionals, it is of foremost importance that we understand the impact of our work on the global economy. FTEC has taught me exactly this, in a multicultural collaborative classroom environment.
Shermin Kadiwala

Shermin Kadiwala , Class of ’19

Audit Analyst, AIG

I’m very grateful to be a part of the MS in Finance Flex program! The program gave me a wonderful opportunity to develop my quantitative skill set with myriad resources available for finance graduates seeking to advance their careers.
Zhiyao Zhao

Zhiyao Zhao, Class of ’21

Credit Risk Senior Analyst, CitiGroup

The MS in Finance program in JSOM is one of the most valuable MSF programs — with sophisticated and ingenious curriculum design, flexible career directions, and affordable tuition. With a various range of workshops and events, students can obtain many opportunities to network with finance professionals and prepare their future careers based on the suggestions and recommendations from those professionals. The thoughts I would like to share with the students are: Find your real passion, keep putting in the effort and never quit easily.
Noah Harness

Noah Harness, Class of ’20

Investment Analyst, Invitation Homes

My biggest takeaway from the MSF program is my improved knowledge of statistical and quantitative methods and their applications to solving today’s business and financial problems. My recommendation and advice for incoming students and prospective candidates is to be ready to learn advanced methods and techniques to conduct quality & intelligent financial analysis, and to explore new programming softwares you haven’t used before. You get what you put into it, and if you put in the hours, you’ll have an amazing graduate experience.
Salma Khatun

Salma Khatun, Class of 2019

Engineering Geologist, California Energy Management Division

The UT Dallas MS in Energy Management program helped me a lot to grow professionally. Some of the courses I took under this program filled in my knowledge gap about the business aspects of the energy industry. I got an opportunity to upgrade my soft skill set to the next level by attending the training sessions offered by JSOM’s Career Management Center. The Jindal School played a key role in setting me up for success as I started a new chapter in my career.
Sharon McGrath

Sharon McGrath, Class of 2021

Senior Plan Settlement and Revenue Accountant, Lucid Energy

I’ve been in the energy industry for the last decade, and I love it. However, I knew I needed to gain both broader and more in-depth knowledge of the sector if I wanted to advance my career. I compared UT Dallas’s Energy Management program to OU’s EMBA Energy program and found UT Dallas’s curriculum to be far more rigorous from many standpoints: business and economics, global, environmental and ethical.
Shiv Patel

Shiv Patel

The first day I entered the Jindal School of Management, I had no idea what to expect. Coming in as a transfer from The University of Texas at Austin during my sophomore year, it was rather discouraging, at first. I reminisce those times where I was fixed on going to class and going back home. Nothing more, nothing less, but consciously knew that mentality had to change. Read More
Yu-chi Wang

Yu-chi Wang, Class of ’19

Senior Valuation Consultant, CBIZ Business Valuation Group (Acquisition & Investment Analyst, Hardeman)

With the aspiration of working in the most mature financial industry in the world, I came to the United States to pursue my Master’s degree. UT Dallas MS Finance program provides international students the opportunity to start a chapter in the US at the most reasonable rate with abundant resources in one of the fastest growing cities in America.
Amber Rao

Amber Rao

After 10 years of work experience, I decided to take the GMAT and pursue an MBA. I evaluated my options for an Executive MBA program at UTD and other institutions, but ultimately decided to pursue the Professional Flex MBA program at UTD for the value and flexibility it provided. Business travel was a part of my career, so the flexibility to take one online course and one in person course per semester allowed me to fit the MBA into my life.   Read More
Jai Krishnan

Jai Krishnan, Class of ’17

Financial Analyst, Daseke Inc.

The MS Finance program gave me the flexibility, knowledge and experience that I needed for my career. Faculty helped me tailor my coursework and mentored me to succeed with my professional goals. Active participation in student organizations, competitions judged by industry leaders and projects with real-world case studies developed my leadership and networking skills, critical in today’s competitive job market.
Andrew Bardin

Andrew Bardin , Class of ’19

Forecasting and Analytics at J.P. Morgan

My time in the MS in Finance program at UT Dallas was invaluable. I made so many great connections with professors, staff, and classmates that I looked forward to attending classes. The curriculum and resources made it possible to focus my education on the cutting edge of finance, using data, quantitative methods, analytics, and simulation. The skills that I learned through case studies and projects helped me get a great job and enabled me to make an impact right away.
Cory Smith

Cory Smith

Like many of the other students, I sought out UT Dallas for my MBA due to its reputation, it being close to home and having flexible programs. In doing so, I also wanted to make sure I stretched outside of what I had done as an undergrad by diving into topics I found more interesting and useful. The Real Estate Program at UTD was definitely one of the best ways to do this  Read More
Gowthamsankaran Sivanandan

Gowthamsankaran Sivanandan, Class of 2018

Project Manager, Ideal Energy Inc.

The M.S Energy Management program provided key insights and resources that are needed to ensure that I am well equipped for industry. The guest lectures by the energy experts are of tremendous help to gain contacts and real-world knowledge. I was also the Director of Renewable Energy and Sustainability with the Energy Association which bolstered my passion to pursue a career in Renewable Energy and here I am, a Project Manager of a Solar EPC company that installs technological advanced Solar and Storage systems.
Prateek Gupta

Prateek Gupta, Class of 2019

Senior Energy Analyst, Air Power USA

Finding the best opportunity was not easy with an industrial background, but getting my MS in Energy Management at the Naveen Jindal School of Management at UT Dallas has helped me to secure an exciting and challenging career with great growth potentials. The program provided me the skills necessary to be an analyst in energy management consulting. Professors and this program helped me grow professionally, academically and personally.
Varshil Parikh

Varshil Parikh, Class of ’20

Investment Analyst at GHR Foundation

My MS Finance journey gave me an insight into the practical side of the investment and finance world. Having knowledge about the core concepts is crucial but knowing how to apply them is more important than that. MS Finance at UT Dallas provided me with an environment of practical learning by offering practical courses, workshops & competitions. Working in teams with people from different backgrounds and cultures from all around the world gives you the ability to view the problem at hand via multiple perspectives. In addition to this, the CMC also supported me in my growth on the non-academic soft skill side for overall career development.
Luke Lessig

Luke Lessig, Class of 2020

The unique mix of high quality instructors and coursework, numerous professional and informative student organizations, industry connections and career guidance through the CMC, and supportive, knowledgeable fellow students has helped me define my career goals and work towards them. I have no doubt that the education I’ve received in the BS in Finance program at the Jindal School of Management has more than prepared me for a top career in finance.

Jai Rawat, PPF 5

Investment Banking Analyst at KeyBanc Capital Markets

PPF has been instrumental in fueling my professional growth through its comprehensive curriculum and esteemed student-run investment fund. I credit all my success to the opportunities, knowledge, and connections fostered by this outstanding program.
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Finance Alumni Spotlights

Read the success stories from JSOM alumni who earned their degrees in the Finance and Managerial Economics Area. These alumni are current professionals who share their insights about their experience and life after graduating from UT Dallas.

Doug Hermann portrait

Doug Hermann, BS’14

Broker Associate, The Weitzman Group

Hermann double-majored while at Jindal School, graduating with a degree in Finance and a degree in Business Administration.

Dewei Jiang portrait

Dewei (Wayne) Jiang, MS’13

Strategic Analyst, Midway Asia Head Office, Merlin Entertainments Group

Jiang, an MS/Finance graduate, has a broad range of responsibilities at Merlin, where he works in its Hong Kong office.

Andy Mangham portrait

Andy Mangham, BS’07 MBA’12 MS’13

IT Audit Manager – Global Sox Assurance; CBRE

In his role at the real estate services giant CBRE, Mangham manages IT audits for global operations, works on special projects for executives.

Chris Petrawski

Chris Petrawski, MS’17

Director Of Digital, Bedford Advertising

As head of digital strategy for Bedford Advertising, Petrawski is tasked with growing the digital division of the company as well as maximizing the digital impact of its clients. Petrawski earned his master’s in marketing at the Jindal School, which, he said, helped him grow in confidence and decision making. “They gave me the tools to succeed in the marketing roles I’ve had throughout my career,” he said. “This is very beneficial because I work with a multitude of clients across various industries. Understanding the role of marketing in business helps me focus our client’s efforts on activities that maximize the value for their dollar.”

Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma, Class of ’21

Finance Manager at Amazon

My background experience was a mix of technical qualifications as a software engineer and work experience as a futures trader and Sales Finance Manager. Even though I had worked in the finance domain in different capacities, I didn’t have experience of academic finance and when looking for options for my graduate level education my priority was to complement both my previous education and work experience. The MS Finance program at JSOM not only fulfilled all the criteria but also boasted of world class faculty and a very enhanced learning program and facilities.

Ian Martinez

Ian Martinez, Class of ’21

DVC informatics Analyst at Houlihan Lokey

I chose my MS degree in Finance at JSOM primarily because of the curriculum and the faculty staff. The courses taught covered all of the areas in finance and it gave the opportunity to specialize in different concentrations, such as financial technology or investment analysis. Additionally, the faculty is very well prepared and up to date in the latest research.

Florent (AC) Ndindjock

Florent (AC) Ndindjock, BS’18

AVP, Associate Client Advisor, Marsh USA, inc

Ndindjock joined Marsh, a global insurance and risk management company with offices in 130 nations, after he earned his Business Administration undergraduate degree at Jindal School. He has since been transferred to the Marsh office in North Carolina. While at Jindal School, Ndindjock concentrated in Risk Management and Insurance and was active in the industry’s professional fraternity, Gamma Iota Sigma, which has a student chapter on campus. Ndindjock has “returned” to UT Dallas as an MBA student, where he is pursuing his degree online.

Brad Perkinson portrait

Brad Perkinson, BS’08, MS’09

Founder,CEO and Brewer, Firewheel Brewing Co., LLC

This Naveen Jindal School of Management grad took the opportunity of getting laid off to pursue a dream of starting what is now known as FireWheel Brewery in Rowlett.

Priya Singh portrait

Priya Singh, BS’15

Analyst, Goldman Sachs

Singh, who earned her finance degree at Jindal School, now is a Warehouse Asset Manager at Goldman Sachs and works as part of the Realty Management Division in Dallas. “My current job consists of working with consumer and student loan facilities to ensure loan management and assist with the lending business,” she says. She also assists the trading desk and bankers in New York City. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Singh worked for two years with GE Capital in its Commercial Leadership Program in Chicago and Wisconsin.

Long Ly

Long Ly, Class of ’21

Investment Analyst at Invitation Homes

The experience was wonderful, learning from the JSOM professors has shaped me personally and professionally. The JSOM students there were also very intellectual and curious. It was a great educational experience.

Shahzil Amin portrait

Shahzil (Shaz) Amin, BS’11

Founder & CEO, Blue Track Media; Managing Partner, Karlani Capital; Founder, Plugged Labs, Inc.

Amin followed a path to entrepreneurship many have trod – he had no choice but to be successful.

Christian Tellez portrait

Christian Tellez, MS’15

Senior Investment Associate, Diamond Realty Investments, Inc.

Tellez underwrites potential commercial real estate development projects across the country that his company may consider for investment. Tellez earned an MS/Finance at Jindal School. “The master’s degree I earned at UT Dallas 100 percent catapulted my career,” said Tellez, who completed his undergrad degree in economics at Texas Tech. “I was extremely hungry but I was struggling to get the attention of ‘big time’ finance players in Dallas due to lack of experience,” he says.

Gaurav Sethi

Gaurav Sethi, BS’20

Investment Bank Risk Analyst, JP Morgan

Sethi works at JP Morgan as a specialist in counterparty credit risk calculations, doing the heavy analysis that most don’t even know exists – he investigates and explains derivative exposure variances and changes. Sethi earned both finance and actuarial science undergrad degrees. (Actuarial science is in the UT Dallas School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.) Notably, Sethi was awarded the prestigious $15,000 Mitchell Family Foundation Scholar Award from the Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation, based on his work with CampusOven, a service that connects university employees and students with caterers who are focused on healthy eating options.

Lester Dsouza

Lester Dsouza, Class of ’21

Financial Analyst at CBRE

During my research for a good graduate school, I saw that the MS in Finance at JSOM offered more than just quality education, it provided an access to huge knowledge pool and experience from the faculties and the peers alike. It had the widely diverse class with students from all around the world to learn from, while having 200+ student organizations to develop myself outside of the classroom and make friends. Being located really close to Dallas, a major city which has great opportunities also influenced my decision to enroll at JSOM.

Remsen Jennings portrait

Remsen Jennings, BS’11, MS’12

Assurance Services, EY

Remsen Jennings graduated summa cum laude with a double bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance in 2011, following that with a master’s degree in accounting in 2012. During his time at UT Dallas, Jennings was appointed as a UT System Student Advisory Council member, elected as student body vice president, served as president of the Davidson Management Honors Program and was a member of the Professional Program in Accounting.

Andrew Joseph Limas

Andrew Joseph Limas, BS’19

Assistant Language Teacher, RCS Japan

After graduating from Jindal School with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Limas signed up with RCS Corporation Japan, a staffing company based in Tokyo that finds English teachers for local schools. The company placed him in a job in Tokyo, where Limas now works as an assistant language teacher. In his role, he shares language skills with his students along with information about American culture and traditions. He credits opportunities to work on start-up business ideas at the Jindal School with expanding his understanding about how businesses work.

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Finance Student Experiences

Current students and alumni share their academic experience, outcomes, and insights. Read their stories and discover how the Finance and Managerial Economics Area has made an impact on their professional and personal lives.

Click the article title to read more!

Dapo Ogunfeitimi and colleagues

Dapo Ogunfeitimi’s Summer Internship at Ernst & Young

As an accounting and finance major at the Naveen Jindal School of Management, Dapo Ogunfeitimi landed a summer internship to gain experience in the field. In this interview, Dapo doesn’t leave out any details of his summer-long experience — even if it means revealing some embarrassing information.

Hui Vivienne MS Finance Graduate

Everything I Needed From a Master’s in Finance

Hui (Vivienne) Zhi, Class of 2020

The job market in the DFW area is growing rapidly, and the area was ranked No. 1 Best City for Jobs by Forbes in 2020. The job opportunities are always out there if you are ready with the necessary skill set.

Kriti Jain

Learning From Site Visits to Solar and Coal Plants

We saw solar plants, coal plants, and we actually got lectures from people who are there inside. And you got a very good idea about how they run and a very practical approach, which was very important.

Kamiar Kordi on a bench

Policentric Revolutionizes Democratic Participation

Kamiar Kordi hopes to revolutionize politics by increasing awareness and connection between constituents and their representatives. In his interview, Kamiar shares how UT Dallas helped him reach for success and make a change.

noah harness MS finance graduate

What Does a Master’s in Finance Teach You?

Noah Harness, Class of 2020

My biggest takeaway from the MSF program is my improved knowledge of statistical and quantitative methods and their applications to solving business and financial problems.

Chunhui Jiang

A Petroleum Engineer Who Found a New Path in Energy Management

We learned from the energy management course that a lot of economic things in finance about contracts and some technologies are related to the energy industry, including the solar, wind, oil and gas — even the nuclear energy.

My Path To Success in MS Finance

Jiaojiao Li, Class of 2020

Looking back, the most important thing I want to share with you is: Be open-minded, reach out to veteran students, your professors, your program advisors and the Career Management Center. Be proactive.

Ankita Kapoor

Ankita’s Internship at KPMG in the Tax Department

Ankita Kapoor, a junior accounting and finance major at the Jindal School, recently interned with the tax department at KPMG, an international audit, tax and advisory company, to learn more about the work and see if it was right for her. In her interview, Ankita discusses the importance of an internship in ensuring your field is right for you before you graduate

Nidhi Khetan MS Finance Graduate

Takeaways From the Master’s in Finance Program

Nidhi Khetan, Class of 2020

As a child, I grew up listening to dinner-table conversations between my father, uncle and grandfather, discussing strategies to expand our business and overcome financial hurdles along the way. This struck a spark in me to understand how business and finance work.

Karmani Finance Graduate

Inspired to Pursue a Second Master’s

I am an electrical engineer and worked as an assistant professor for six-plus years. While working as a professor, I felt that it is equally important to learn the business side of the industry. And that thought inspired me to pursue my second master’s in energy management.

Moiz Shad

How a CEO Pitched to Wall Street Added Value to My Degree

As part of my degree, one of the electives that I took was energy economics. We got to see different CEOs and CFOs Wall Street pitch. We got to see their whole process.

Fernanda Muñoz

Fernanda Muñoz’s Internship at Top Golf International

Fernanda Muñoz, a global business and finance student at the Jindal School of Management, accepted an internship at Top Golf International to dive into the field of finance. In this interview, Fernanda shares details of her experience, including how essential it is to network.

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Finance Resource Articles

Find advice and resources you need as a student at UT Dallas Jindal School of Management, and begin your experience on the right track.

MS Energy Management Student talks to faculty.

Working Full-Time While in the MS in Energy Management Program

Written by Dan Sibley

The program requires completion of 36 semester credit hours. The curriculum was designed to be completed in as little as 12 months (four courses per semester, including the summer semester).

energy management students visiting site global perspective in energy management

Why a Global Perspective Is Important

Written by Stephen Molina

We strive to prepare our graduates to work for private energy companies and in governments to manage their assets.

ms energy management professional development

Professional Development Opportunities in Energy Management

Written by Dan Sibley

The program provides professional development opportunities through the student-run clubs, the Energy Association and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators, and through a mentor program.

energy management students on site visit why get a masters in energy managment

Why Get a Master’s in Energy Management?

Written by Stephen Molina

The energy and power industries are global businesses with strategic assets in both developed and developing countries, and they require an international approach.

MS Energy Management faculty with energy management experience

Benefits of Having Faculty With Industry Experience

Written by Stephen Molina

Texas boasts some of the largest energy-related companies in the world. The MS in Energy Management curriculum offers a practical learning component through projects developed by industry members.

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Finance Blogs & News

Student analyze data problems in Risk Analytics course.

JSOM Students Gravitate to Foundations of Risk Analytics

A great starter course in risk management is the Foundations of Risk Analytics and Applications class (RMIS 4338). This course has no prerequisites and is taught by professor Steven Haynes.
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Panelists Study the Business Value of Emerging Technologies at CFSI/IBM Event

The Jindal School’s Center for Finance Strategy and Innovation teamed with the IBM Global Solutions Center to present a half-day event studying how to unlock the business value of artificial intelligence, blockchain and other new technologies.

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Jindal School Dean Names Director of New Weitzman Institute

Jindal School Dean Hasan Pirkul has appointed Dr. Randall S. Guttery director of the new Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate. The institute has been created thanks to a generous gift from real estate icon Herb Weitzman and his wife, Donna.

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UT Dallas Excels at DECA Conference—With Freshmen Leading the Way

Freshmen members of the UT Dallas DECA chapter won all the first-, second- and third-place prizes the chapter earned at the 2019 DECA International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Fla. In all, 34 UT Dallas students competed at the event.

Jindal School Students Earn Scholar Award for ‘Rolling with the Punches’

Three Jindal School students have been named recipients of $15,000 Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation Scholarships.The students as well as the foundation have had to make pandemic-related adjustments to doing business.

Logo for the Real Estate Club at UT Dallas

6 Reasons to Study Real Estate at UT Dallas

Pursuing a real estate concentration at the Jindal School could be a life-changing step toward a rewarding career. Here are six reasons studying real estate can set you on the path to success.

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Financial Executives International Honor Late JSOM Professor with Scholarship

A new Jindal School scholarship funded by the Dallas chapter of Financial Executives International honors the late Dr. Constantine Konstans, a former chapter president and founder of the Institute for Excellence in Corporate Governance.

Digital Technologies

Disruptive Digital Technologies Drive the Need for Innovation

Recent disruptive digital innovations have changed the relative cost calculus and thus the best business structures and best business models in most industries. Digital transformation is underway.

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JSOM Senior Wins $5K Scholarship

JSOM senior Rachel McKenna won a $5,000 scholarship from the charitable arm of Ascend, a Pan-Asian professional organization. A leader in the UT Dallas Ascend chapter, McKenna will use the money to help fund her graduate studies in accounting.

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Jindal School Team Wins Texas Shoot-Out Real Estate Case Competition

A team of Jindal School graduate students recently won first place and $6,000 in the Texas Shoot-Out Real Estate Case Challenge by creating a revitalization plan for property adjacent to the DART rail Farmers Branch Station.

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Jindal School Assistant Dean Awarded Congressional Veteran Commendation

The head of the Jindal School’s Career Management Center has been recognized for his service in the military and as a veteran. Assistant Dean Tom Kim earned a commendation from the Texas 26th Congressional District, where he grew up and now resides.

The Risk Management and Cyber Security concentration at UT Dallas holds a panel sponsored by Travelers Insurance. The panel included Olivia Allen (Small commercial underwriting manager), Michael Assels (Surety Bond Account Executive Officer) and Ken Greer (AVP Claim Management)

5 Reasons to Study Risk Management and Cyber Security at UT Dallas

An understanding of risk management and cybersecurity can help individuals create resilient businesses that can stand the test of potential threats.

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Online Business Simulation Game Stirs Students’ Competitive Juices

Naveen Jindal School of Management students in Dr. Shawn Carraher’s international marketing courses are required to play the Business Strategy Game, an online simulation competition. Many both enjoy it and score among the Global Top 100 performers.

JSOM Pair Studies Motivations and Methodologies of Property Tax Protests

A study of property tax protests by a Jindal School professor, PhD student and a research associate examined the decision-making behind disputed tax bills. Their work looked at hassle factors, aids to effective protesting and more.

Kamiar Kordi

Policentric Revolutionizes Democratic Participation

Kamiar Kordi hopes to revolutionize politics by increasing awareness and connection between constituents and their representatives. In his interview, Kamiar shares how UT Dallas helped him reach for success and make a change.

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Strategic Management Online Contest Grows in Popularity, Gains No. 4 Winner

Efforts to get more Jindal School undergraduate and graduate students to enter an online contest based on their strategic management course yielded more entrants and more top finishers. One Jindal School student finished No. 4 in the world.

Ankita Kapoor,

Ankita’s Internship at KPMG in the Tax Department

Ankita Kapoor, a junior accounting and finance major at the Jindal School, recently interned with the tax department at KPMG, an international audit, tax and advisory company, to learn more about the work and see if it was right for her. In her interview, Ankita discusses the importance of an internship in ensuring your field is right for you before you graduate.

growth-in-jindal-school-real-estate-concentrations-mirrors-industry

Growth in Jindal School Real Estate Concentrations Mirrors Industry

In Jindal School Real Estate Concentrations, growth abounds. Dr. Randall S. Guttery leads courses whose enrollments have nearly quadrupled in five years, and he puts students, faculty and pros together to the benefit of all.

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CAFÉ Hosts Evening With Political Satirist P. J. O’ Rourke

Veteran journalist and satirist P.J. O’Rourke offered a humorous but plain-spoken interpretation of economics for a students, professors and community members who attended a Jindal School event hosted by CAFÉ and featuring his latest book.

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From South America to Texas, Finance Student Focuses on Making an Impact

Reputation, rankings and the Dallas Cowboys drew graduate finance student Sebastian Cadario to the Jindal School, where last summer he used his passions for math and helping people to aid contestants in the UT Dallas Top Trader Competition.

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Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in Finance?

Bachelor’s Degree Program

Build the skills to do rigorous analysis of financial information through various courses in managerial economics and financial analysis. These skills are in high demand across the corporate world and prized in government and not-for-profit sectors.

BS in Finance

Master’s Degree Programs

Find the finance graduate degree that matches your interests. See a brief summary of each degree or click a program below for more information.

MS in Finance MS in Finance Technology and Analytics MS in Energy Management

PhD Concentration in Finance

Develop strong research skills that are especially relevant for students interested in an academic career. Research seminars are held weekly, and each year, the finance area sponsors a speaker series to bring researchers from other universities to UT Dallas.

PhD in Management Science, Finance Concentration